Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose didn't close the window on a possible return from his meniscus injury, and he is now starting to progress and is no longer walking with the help of crutches, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Patients can walk without crutches six-to-eight weeks after meniscus surgery, according to the Tribune, who cited a therapist.

Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau, who is tight-lipped in most instances, said Rose will start to travel with the team in the next couple weeks, based on the report. In the meantime, Rose continues to take positive steps forward, Thibodeau said.

"He's coming along fine," Thibodeau said. "He's doing more and more, but he still has a long way to go."

The team did declare Rose done for the season when he first suffered the meniscus injury on Nov. 22, but he didn't do the same in a press conference.

While that is far off, Rose will remain close to the team during his rehab process.